Northern business leaders cheer Dangote’s spot on Time’s 2026 Influential 100
Orisemeke Benjamin
Business leaders across northern Nigeria have lauded Africa’s foremost philanthropist, Aliko Dangote, for his distinction as the sole Nigerian named on Time Magazine’s 2026 list of the world’s 100 most influential people.
President of the Kaduna Chamber of Commerce Industry, Mines and Agriculture (KADCCIMA) Alh Farouk Suleiman, said: “This distinction is not only a personal milestone for Mr. Dangote, but also a moment of pride for Nigeria and the African continent.”
KADCCIMA President said: “His journey shows an extraordinary commitment to industrialization, economic transformation, and self-reliance, values that resonate strongly with our collective aspirations as a nation.”
Alhaji Farouk noted that Mr. Dangote’s influence is deeply rooted in his pioneering role in building large-scale industries that have significantly reduced Nigeria’s dependence on imports while creating thousands of jobs.
He described Mr. Dangote as the backbone of the Kaduna Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, adding that his company’s sponsorship of Trade Fairs has helped to sustain the annual event.
Speaking also, one of the leaders of Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) in Kano/Jigawa, Nura Madugu said from cement production to petrochemicals and agriculture, Mr. Dangote’s investments have reshaped critical sectors of the economy and strengthened Nigeria’s position in regional and global markets.
“His ability to execute ambitious projects, particularly in challenging environments, demonstrates visionary leadership and an unwavering belief in Africa’s potential,” he said.
He added that beyond business, his impact as a philanthropist further justifies this global recognition.
In his response, the Director General of the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI), Mr. Agabaidu Jideani said: “This global honour is not only a testament to his extraordinary entrepreneurial achievements but also a reflection of the growing influence of African business leaders on the world stage.”
He added that “As a distinguished member of the Chamber, Dangote exemplifies the transformative power of private enterprise in driving economic growth, industrialization, and sustainable development. Through the Dangote Group, he has significantly reshaped key sectors of the Nigerian and African economy, particularly in manufacturing, agriculture, and infrastructure, while reducing import dependence and strengthening local production capacity.”
Responding also, the Chairman and Council members of the Nigeria Association of Small-Scale Industrialists (NASSI), Nasarawa State Chapter, Nidan Sambo Manasseh said Mr. Dangote’s selection is well justified by his transformative role in advancing industrialization across key sectors of the economy.
